Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 18, 2025

Development of a Virtual Reality Assessment of Everyday Living Skills
Published on: April 23, 2014
Perceived Stigma Toward Cognitive Impairment Among People With Schizophrenia
Lauren Gonzales1, Alice M Saperstein1, Nev Jones1
1Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York City, and New York State Office of Mental Health, Albany (Gonzales, Saperstein, Erlich, Medalia); School of Social Work, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh (Jones).
Individuals with cognitive impairment associated with schizophrenia (CIAS) commonly experience CIAS-related stigma. This stigma is linked to internalized stigma and reduced motivation, impacting recovery.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Schizophrenia spectrum disorders are frequently accompanied by cognitive impairment (CIAS).
- Stigma surrounding mental illness negatively impacts treatment access and outcomes.
- The relationship between CIAS and stigma remains underexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of CIAS-related stigma in individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
- To examine the association between CIAS-related stigma and recovery-relevant outcomes.
Main Methods:
- The study analyzed data from 48 individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum disorders undergoing cognitive remediation.
- Participants completed validated measures assessing CIAS-related stigma, internalized stigma, self-perceived cognitive deficits, cognitive performance, and quality of life.
Main Results:
- CIAS-related stigma was frequently reported by participants.
- CIAS-related stigma showed significant positive correlations with internalized mental illness stigma and self-perceived cognitive impairment.
- CIAS-related stigma was significantly negatively associated with motivation for goal-directed behavior and daily activities.
Conclusions:
- CIAS-related stigma is a prevalent issue among individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
- The findings underscore the need for further research into the implications of CIAS-related stigma for psychiatric service delivery and patient recovery.
Related Concept Videos
Negative and Cognitive Symptoms of Schizophrenia
Negative Symptoms
Negative symptoms of schizophrenia manifest as deficits in normal emotional and behavioral functioning, profoundly impacting daily life. Individuals with schizophrenia often display a flat affect, characterized by a near-total absence of emotional expression,...
Schizophrenia
Psychological and Sociocultural Causes of Schizophrenia
Positive Symptoms Schizophrenia: Hallucinations and Delusions
Hallucinations
Hallucinations in...
Lazarus's Cognitive Appraisal Theory
Primary Appraisal:...
Positive Symptoms of Schizophrenia: Hallucinations and Delusions
Thought Disorders
Disorganized and unusual thought processes mark thought disorders in schizophrenia. One key feature is disorganized speech, where an individual's conversation includes...

